The 2026 Ford Explorer is a midsize three-row SUV with seating for up to seven passengers and maximum cargo capacity exceeding 85 cubic feet. It competes in the segment against models like the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, and Chevrolet Traverse, which offer similar three-row configurations for family use, road trips, and towing up to around 5,000 pounds. The 2026 model carries over most elements from the 2025 mid-cycle refresh that updated exterior styling and interior layout, while adding a new Tremor off-road trim. The standard powertrain features a turbocharged 2.3-liter EcoBoost inline-four engine producing 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission with rear-wheel drive; all-wheel drive is available on all trims.
The Ford Digital Experience infotainment system includes a standard 13.2-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and built-in Google services for maps, voice commands, and applications. BlueCruise 1.5 hands-free highway assist with automatic lane changes is available on higher trims, complemented by the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite that provides adaptive cruise control, blind-spot information, and lane-keeping assistance from base models. The FordPass app supports remote preconditioning, vehicle tracking, and service alerts, along with subscription-based Wi-Fi hotspot capability for up to 10 devices and over-the-air updates.
What You're Really Signing Up For
- Collects and shares detailed driving data plus location without easy opt-out
- Sells personal and vehicle data to advertisers
- Connected features require ongoing FordPass account and risk service shutdown
- Always-on modem sends diagnostics and location data periodically
- Drive modes fail to remember your preferred settings
Top Reported Issues
The most frequently mentioned problems by owners
Detailed Vehicle Driving Data
The vehicle continuously records operational and driving data such as tire pressure, odometer, fuel ...
Broad Data Sharing Practices
Collected personal and vehicle data is shared with affiliates, dealers, social media platforms, adve...
Start-stop turn anxiety
Auto start-stop causes driver anxiety when preparing left turns from stops, due to fear of delayed o...
Location Tracking Overrides
Ford can collect precise vehicle location data even if location settings are disabled, in cases like...
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about the 2026 Ford Explorer
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